Writer Jane Austen to appear on 10-pound banknote

Jane Austen will appear on Britain’s next 10-pound note, ensuring at least one female historical figure is represented on the currency in circulation.

The Bank of England plans to issue the new note with the early 19th century novelist in 2016 or 2017, the 200th anniversary of her death. The central bank said yesterday the note will include a quote from her book Pride and Prejudice: “I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading!”

Austen’s appearance follows concerns that Britain would have no female historical figures on the reverse of banknotes. The BOE plans to replace Elizabeth Fry, a 19th-century social reformer who features on the current 5-pound note, with former prime minister Winston Churchill starting in 2016. While the queen appears on the front of the notes as the sovereign, the back has included historical figures since 1970.

“Jane Austen certainly merits a place in the select group of historical figures to appear on our banknotes,” BOE Governor Mark Carney said in the statement. “She is recognized as one of the greatest writers in English literature.”